- Categories:
- Food & Beverage
- Tags:
- AppreciationBreakfastFood
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every June 23
- Holiday emoji:
- 🥣
National Porridge Day warms our mornings every June 23. This humble yet versatile dish, made from boiled grains like oats, rice, or corn, offers a comforting start to the day. Customize your bowl with fruits, nuts, or sweeteners, and share your favorite recipe with friends and family.
Want to sponsor National Porridge Day? Learn how
History of National Porridge Day
The history of porridge is as rich as the dish itself. Before the invention of baking ovens, porridge was the most essential part of the British diet. Porridge, or gruel, has been indulged in cross-culturally for centuries. The origins of porridge can be traced to Northern Europe, where it was traditionally enjoyed savory. The word ‘porridge’ first appeared in the 16th century and is believed to be a spin-off of the word ‘pottage’ — a type of stew.
Porridge hasn’t always been the way it is today. Preparation ingredients varied from grass-borne grains to other crops. Quinoa grain has been used for making porridge for more than 3,000 years, whereas rice porridge was eaten in China since 2500 B.C. It goes back even further than this, with evidence discovered by researchers proving that the cooked mush was eaten in some form as far back as 12,000 years ago, at the beginning of the Neolithic Revolution.
Soon after, people started preparing thick pancakes on stone ovens or hot tiles, using porridge-like mixtures. Such flatbreads are mentioned throughout the Old Testament, but a similar innovation simultaneously occurred throughout the world. The popularity of porridge and its many variations led to the creation of corn cakes, cornbreads, corn puddings, etc.
In the past few years, there has been a renewed interest in porridge. Artisan cooks and high-profile chefs are experimenting with the bland ingredients of porridge to blend and create different flavors around the world.
National Porridge Day timeline
Oats are introduced to Scotland.
The story of Goldilocks, the bears, and the porridge is published by poet laureate Robert Southey.
Porridge portrays an image of poverty in a famous scene in Charles Dickens’ novel “Oliver Twist.”
Porridge is briefly promoted as a soup and remedy for treating the sick.
The Quaker Oats Company is founded in New Jersey with headquarters in Chicago.
National Porridge Day FAQs
When is National Porridge Day?
National Porridge Day 2026 falls on Tuesday, June 23, inviting everyone to start their day with a warm, comforting bowl. It’s the perfect mid-week treat to fuel your morning.
What are the health benefits of porridge?
Porridge, especially oat-based varieties, is rich in soluble fiber, which can help lower cholesterol and stabilize blood sugar levels. It’s also a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to overall heart health and digestion.
How popular is porridge globally?
Porridge is a staple breakfast in many cultures worldwide, from Scottish oatmeal to Chinese congee and Indian upma. Millions consume it daily, adapting local grains and flavors to create diverse and beloved regional variations.
What is the difference between porridge and oatmeal?
Oatmeal is a specific type of porridge made from oats, while porridge is a broader term for any dish made by boiling grains in liquid. You can have rice porridge, corn porridge (like polenta), or semolina porridge, all distinct from oatmeal.
National Porridge Day Activities
Make a warm bowl of porridge
Obviously! Get your favorite porridge oats and other pantry staples, and stir up a hearty bowl of porridge. Eat it with a banana, fruits, or honey.
Try a new recipe
Porridge can be prepared and cooked in an unbelievable variety of ways. Around the world, there are different ways to enjoy this dish. Look up a different recipe and try it out!
Get a free case of Goat Milk Porridge
Kabrita is donating a FREE case of its Organic Goat Milk Porridge ($51 value) to US parents between June 23-29, 2021 (or while supplies last) in celebration of the holiday.
5 Facts About Porridge That Will Blow Your Mind
The wooden spoon has a name
The wooden spoon used to stir porridge is called a ‘spurtle.’
It means what?
The word ‘porriginous’ has nothing to do with porridge — it means ‘suffering from dandruff.’
Porridge is slang for prison
In the U.K., porridge is used as a slang term for a prison sentence, most likely referring to prison breakfast
Porridge for snails
Research shows that snails are more likely to procreate when fed porridge.
Marianne Faithfull is faithful to porridge
English singer and actress Marianne Faithfull once said, “The food that’s never let me down in life is porridge.”
Why We Love National Porridge Day
Porridge has a rich history
It amazes us at National Today how something as simple as porridge has such an interesting and extensive history! Variations of the dish have been celebrated around the world across cultures for centuries. Let’s bond over porridge!
Porridge is healthy
Porridge has many health benefits and should be a part of everyone’s diet. Incredibly nutritious and packed with antioxidants, porridge improves the heart and helps with maintaining weight.
Porridge is an excellent start to the day
Porridge’s looks are deceiving — it looks boring but the oats in it are complex carbohydrates, which release energy slowly throughout the day.
